Long before the advent of the Internet when I was a Mom with young babies and children, I preferred catalogue shopping. Malls were in their infancy, and mainly strip shopping centers existed. I found I was able to get a better selection of natural clothing and educational toys and products through catalogues.

Whenever I was able to get together with other playgroup moms, or the members of the Junior Women’s Club that I belonged to, we exchanged catalogs.

Thank goodness the dawn of the digital era makes this whole process just a little easier! I’ve become a huge advocate of online shopping, even now that my children are grown. As the holiday season approaches, I recommend you check out SHOP.COM, a comparison shopping site specifically designed for women that allows you to shop from over 2,000 merchants all in one place. Purchases can be conveniently made using one universal “shopping cart” to buy everything at one time or by clicking over to participating merchants’ sites.

SHOP.COM gives busy Moms an opportunity to ease the stress of holiday shopping with tools to help us figure out what to buy, find recommendations, and pinpoint which stores have the best price. With a combined total of over 20 million products, we can stop running from store to store to find the best deal or the perfect gift for the impossible-to-shop-for relative. You’ll find sections for clothing, baby products, electronics, home décor and more. There’s even a section to see which shops offer Free Shipping ~ which is an added-value plus during the holidays when shopping for many people!

Additionally, SHOP.COM provides expert advice, shopping tips, and articles, while giving easy ways to save money via price comparison tools, coupons, and rebates.

Whether you’re a Baby Boomer Grandma with tired feet, or a mom with a toddlers in tow, try it out this Holiday Season and see for yourself. Visit http://shop.com for hostess gifts as well as for your whole family.

Have you ever calculated about how many loads of laundry you’ll do in your lifetime? The thought is mind-boggling.

When I was first married over 30 years ago, it was just the Hubs and I. The only issue was having to run downstairs to the laundry area in the apartment building. Over time, came a house and kids.

I’m probably on my 4th dryer and maybe 3rd washing machine now. Dryers usually get quite a work-out here in New England, as we don’t see too much sunshine in the winter, and drying the clothes outside can get a tad …. Challenging.

For much of my sudsing career, I’ve always used Clorox 2, a non-chlorine bleach . As a mom of various assorted cats, dogs, two children and two grandchildren ~ I’m very experienced in trying to get out all types of stains.

Clorox 2 just launched a new advanced formula that works better on tough stains and keeps clothes bright. I recently had the opportunity to review this new product!

I just add Clorox 2 Stain Fighter & Color Booster to every load with my detergent for cleaner and brighter clothes. I see my grandchildren practically every day, and usually there’s an incident that requires my washer to be running and the little darlings are placed in spare clothes until whatever they wore over is clean again!

In these tough economic times, it pays to be frugal.  It’s always nice to freshen up any childrens clothing that you may plan on reselling or placing on consignment once it’s outgrown.  Clorox 2 is chlorine free and really does the trick.

Give Clorox 2 Stain Fighter & Color Booster a try. Clorox 2 has a money back guarantee and stands behind their products!

Visit http://www.daretobecolorful.com for more information.

Moomettesgram’s Musings is hosting a Giveaway Contest!  For a chance to win one (1) of four (4) coupons for a Free Any 33 oz Liquid Clorox 2 or 49.2 oz Dry Clorox 2 Stain Fighter & Color Booster (Maximum Value $6.00)

To enter (follow directions) Leave a Comment on this post after visiting  Clorox 2 Stain Fighter & Color Booster and let me know what you liked best about their website.

Now for extra entries (each task will get you 1 extra entry):

~Subscribe to my blog via e-Mail through my feedburner link (on the top of my left column).
~Add my button to your sidebar or add me to your blog roll.
~Blog about the contest on your blog, linking back to my blog and the URL to your post (the links must be active/clickable).
~Go favorite or fan me on Technorati, Digg, or Stumble leaving your user name (the link is on my left column if you scroll down) or both.

~Tweet about this contest, and leave your Twitter ID

Make sure you comment separately for each task after the required entry task so you will get credit for each one ~ and leave your e-mail where you can be contacted.

This contest will run until December 5, 2008 at approximately 11:00 pm.  Winners to be chosen at random. USA residents only.

It’s so much fun to be a grandmom! Like my own mom, my kids were born while I was in my early 30’s, so I always figured it would quite awhile before I became a grandmother. When my oldest daughter and her husband presented me with my first grandchild, ‘Lil Moomete, two years ago, I was delighted.

Imagine my delight when my new grandson Slugger was born this past August! I couldn’t contain myself!

Having a grandson is a little different than having a granddaughter. Being of the female persuasion, I’m used to shopping for frilly things ~for my own girls as well as my nieces. It’s taking a little getting used-to picking out clothing and accessories for the (so-far) male heir to the family dynasty that would be acceptable to his fashionista mama.

I’m delighted to be writing about Bumkins Finer Baby Products.

Bumkins Finer Baby Products was founded by Jakki Liberman in 1989. Initially conceived as a means to provide her own young family with an alternative to disposable diapers, Jakki began the company with a single prototype, the All in One cloth diaper. This inventive design, which rivaled disposables in convenience, became the foundation of Bumkins product offerings.

In 2005 Bumkins became a Dr. Seuss licensee and entered into the world of infant and toddler apparel.

I received the most adorable Dr. Seuss Coverall Seuss Suit to review from Bumkins Finer Baby Products. Dr. Seuss was one of Slugger’s mom’s favorite characters when growing up.

The Coverall is adorned with the whimsical characters Thing One and Thing Two as well as the classic Cat-In-The-Hat stripe print. Seuss logo snaps for easy dressing complete the outfit, which also features adorable back pocket details!

The Dr. Seuss line also features coordinating accessories! Complimenting the outfit I received was a Dr. Seuss Waterproof SuperBib:

* Made of Bumkins’ proprietary waterproof fabric
* Stain and odor resistant
* Adjustable Velcro closure
* Features catch-all pocket
* Machine washable, hang dry
* Measures 10″ across, 9″ from neck down
* Sized to fit 3 months - 2+ years
* PVC, BPA, Phthalate & Vinyl Free
* Made in the USA, with American made fabrics

If you’ll be shopping for a little one this Holiday Season, or looking for a superb children’s line for Baby Showers, Newborns, Birthdays or your own children, visit
Bumkins Finer Baby Products at http://www.bumkins.com for more information.

My daughters are grown, but as a Mom, I’m still always ‘on-call.’ That’s just the way it is, and actually, I’m thankful that I have such a good relationship with my daughters.

Starting today, and probably through next Friday, I’m going to be on ‘red-alert standby’ to take care of ‘Lil Moomette, as my daughter is due to deliver my grandson any day!

Every Grandma needs a goody bag to keep the kiddos occupied when going out to eat. (I like to go out to eat whenever I can!)

I have a Sister-In-Law who always has the most spectacular goody bags at-the ready for the grandchildren. You wouldn’t believe what was in them to keep 5 grandkiddos occupied at a golf tournament! But the irony of it all was that my Sister-In-Law was never blessed with children of her own, and rather that the little darlings are my late Brother-in-Law’s grandchildren!

Thus, I’m delighted to have the opportunity to review the Doodlebugz Crayon Pink Stripe Purse from the Doodlebugz Crayola Collection from Princess Linens!

Doodlebugz™ Crayola Crayon Purse-Pink Stripe

The Doodlebugz Crayon Purse is designed for children ages 3 and Up. The product that I received to review comes complete with a pad of paper, perfectly sized for small hands, and 10 Crayola washable crayons, and 16 outside crayon pocket-holder.

Made from a durable canvas-type fabric, this colorful handbag-style carrier is sure to be a hit with all the little Princesses! Don’t they all like to carry a purse, just like Mommy?

Every little girl likes to see her name in print, and personalization is available.

Safety information on the plastic tube container that the purse comes in, indicates that the crayons are Non-Toxic and meet all ACMI Performance Standards.

Other products offered from the Doddlebugz Crayloa collection include Crayon Aprons & Toolbelts, Chalk Talk Table Mates & Doodlebags.

The second product that I am delighted to review from Princess Linens are the My First Scrubs!

Now if these aren’t the cutest must-have’s I’ve seen lately! I’m having so much fun discovering how little ones are becoming Fashionistas at such a young age!

Although my grandson is due any day now, I can just imagine how adorable these would be when he is toddling around! My First Scrubs are perfect for the doctor or nurse-to-be, and are so authentic! Made with 100% cotton, they have faux drawstring pants for authenticity, and are perfect for the new baby or older sibling. I was thinking they’d be a great idea to use as jammies, but are not marked ‘flame resistant,’ according to U.S. Standards, and are manufactured in China. In any event, they look super-comfy for casual playgroup wear, or just relaxing around the house. Dress them up with accessories ~ and you’d have a super easy Halloween Costume!

Available in sizes up to 4T in three colors:

Lab Green, “No More Blues” Blue, and Candystriper Pink. Lab Green scrubs are available in larger sizes up to size 8! Currently larger sizes are only available in Lab Green.

Princess Linens Fine Hand~Made Baby Gifts also offers Personalized shortalls and baby boy clothing. Princess Linens also offers luxury baby clothes, big brother gifts, big sister gifts, personalized bibs and personalized burp pads. I fell in love with the shortalls and rompers from The Hamptons Collection, personalized with the name “Ethan.” ~ I think that’s what my new grandson will be named! Made of 100% cotton pique.

Princess Linens would like to offer readers of Moomettesgram’s Musings a coupon code (MOOMETTE) to receive a 15% Discount off of any purchases. Visit them at http://princesslinens.com

Wholesale orders also available.

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Since it’s the Lazy, Crazy, Hazy Days of Summer, I’ve decided to shake it up a little, and hold a Contest Giveway!

I sell quite a bit of Girls and Boys Boutique clothing items in my eBay Store where I’m a Power Seller, and at Moomette’s Magnificents Olde Town Shoppes, where I offer boutique, hand crafted items.

This adorable outfit is from Hartstrings, and is New, With Tags.  Still plenty of time to wear this pretty little ditty through early Fall ~ and it’s great for photo portraits, too!  Perhaps you have someone special’s  Birthday coming up, or want to tuck it away and get a head-start on your Holiday Shopping, or even save it for next summer!

Boutique

HARTSTRINGS

BABY PREP NAUTICAL SAILOR KNIT DRESS

If your’re a WAHM and looking for exposure and sales for your hand-crafted items, I might be interested in your products for my Moomette’s Magnificents Olde Towne Shoppes.

I’m looking to add some unique inventory to my boutique online store.

Specifically, I’m interested in items for children, women, jewelry and home decor.

I invite you to look around my Shoppes, and if you think your product might be a good match, to contact me.

If I add your products to my site, I’ll do a blog post to announce your line!

Here’s an example of one of the beautiful items I carry!

Vintage Inspired Baby Blanket The Isabella

Thanks for stopping by!

As Moomettesgram, I’m a Baby Boomer and thrifty Gram from New England ~ I’ve been ‘Around The Block‘ awhile and am familiar with many products, both household and child related. I’ve seen what were the “hottest trendy household and baby products” when my daughters were little in the ’80s, and I know what the “hottest trendy household and baby products” are now that I have my own grandchildren.

My Baby Boomer status qualifies me to have an opinion on just about everything ~ which I’m more than willing to share!

Product Reviews If you are an indie designer or crafter, feel you have a Family-Friendly, product that will be of interest to Moms or Babies and Toddlers (girls and boys) or are a PR rep for a company, PLEASE contact me at moomettesmagnificents06 (at) yahoo (dot) com and I will be more than willing to give you an honest review.

Reviewers: Moomettesgram has been married for close to 35 years and  will review anything having to do with household, beauty or personal care products. ‘

Lil Moomette is now wearing a size 24 months, but will be wearing a 3T in Spring  ‘09.  She’s a real girlie-girl, enjoys being read to and creative play.

Slugger will be one year old in August ‘09 and is currently wearing a size 3-6 months but will most likely be wearing a size 9-12 months in Spring ‘09.  He is busy discovering  the world around him.

As I’m a big supporter of Work-At-Home Moms ~ whether you sell on Etsy or have a boutique store, here’s a great way to gain exposure and get the word out for your WAHM unique hand-crafted items and online website.

Eco-Friendly, non-toxic items are also encouraged! I am unable to review items based strictly on photos, brochures, or a website, and must actually have a physical product to use before an honest review can be made. Therefore, a sample (non-returnable) must be sent, along with permission to use a photo for the review.    I will write the review in exchange for the item. Item will be mine to keep after the review is written.  I will provide a link to the product’s homepage within the review.  All reviews are permanently accessible in the archives and are searchable by category.

You will find it helpful and are encouraged to offer a promotional discount code to my readers. Links to my prior reviews can be found HERE.

Giveaways and Contests In addition to the review, I am able to give the option of offering a like item for a Giveaway Contest . I am able to conduct the giveaway on my Blog, along with all details of the giveaway.  I will also submit the contest to various Contest/Giveaway sites as well as on Twitter for increased exposure. You, the Seller/Store Owner, will be responsible for sending the prize, at your expense, to the winner of the contest.

Complimentary Bonus Perks of Product Reviews by Moomettesgram As an extra perk, I will also place a complimentary Text Link Advertisement to your store/site in the right-hand sidebar Prime-Real Estate corner of my Sponsor Section for 30 days from the day the review is posted. I will also accept business cards as fillers if you provide them, and send them out when shipping products from my eBay store as a means of extra exposure for you.

Drop Shippers I am always looking for Drop Shippers for my Shoppes site, and after reviewing your product, might possibly consider adding your products.  Please forward your Drop Ship terms to me when you contact me. If you are unable to submit a sample, I also offer very affordable advertising if you would like your site listed.

Website/Blog Reviews I also offer reviews of websites and blogs.   Website reviews for companies or sites are available if you  provide a gift certificate that can be used try out your website. I must be able to order a product of my choice, at which point I would then write a review covering your product, ease of use, checkout and shipping services.  The product received will be mine to keep, and is not returnable.  I will provide a written review containing a minimum of 200 words, along with a link to your site.  I also require permission to use a photo of the product for the website review.  If you have any questions, please contact me for specific details.

Contact me below ~  (Please put ‘Product Review‘ in the reference)

moomettesmagnificents06 (at) yahoo (dot) com

Please allow 24 hours for a response.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Cindi Matthews
Company Name: Moomette’s Magnificents Olde Towne Shoppes
Telephone Number: (unlisted)
Email Address: moomettesmagnificents06@yahoo.com
Web site address: www.moomettesmagnificents.com

BABY BOOMER HELPS OTHERS IN TRANSITIONING FROM COMMUTER TO eBIZ OWNER

CONNECTICUT – April 15, 2008 – Cindi Matthews is taking the internet business by storm. After 30 years as a paralegal in the business community, Cindi is looking forward to expanding the baby boomers knowledge and abilities focusing on technology.

Cindi’s passion started with her grandmother, who was born in 1901 and lived to be over 100 years old. Cindi’s passion was generated by her grandmothers appreciation for fine things and sharing her knowledge with Cindi. Many of her vintage items where inherited from her grandmother. Cindi took this opportunity to incorporate her love of vintage items from her grandmother with her love for shopping. Even as a baby boomer she wasn’t about to leave herself without the knowledge of the growing ecommerce business.

After a 20-year break from when Cindi first started college, Cindi received her first B.S degree in Business Administration with a minor in Sociology through accredited online studies, while in her 40s. Cindi went on to complete another Associate of Science degree in Paralegal studies, graduating Magna Cum Laude, all while working full-time and raising a family. With this education, Cindi was able to expand her internet and computer knowledge and develop it in to a passion with her shopping and vintage items.

Cindi has spent years developing her eBiz skills and knowledge. Experienced in all aspects of the retail industry, Cindi was inspired by and assisted her late mother-in-law, who as a female business women, owned a brick and mortar Gourmet Cheese store. Cindi has tried it all from Ebay Power Seller, independent consultant, to Ebay moderator, to blogger, to shoppes site owner. Cindi’s interest in eBiz skills started with an interest in Vintage Collectibles and Shopping. Deciding to incorporate her two passions together, Cindi opened an Ebay store, Moomette’s Magnificents, named after her granddaughter, and became a power seller within 6 months. This was Cindi’s first ecommerce experience.

Cindi’s Ebay store is an eclectic focus with new and EUC upscale clothing, vintage collectibles and other items. With her quick power seller status, Cindi became an Ebay Coach Free Forum moderator. In addition to Cindi’s ebay experience and store, which is still a funds generating program for Cindi, Cindi has worked as an independent consultant. Cindi’s worked for terrific companies such as, Tupperware, Mineral Makeup, and Unique Gift ideas. After Cindi’s experience has an independent consultant Cindi decided to try her skill at eBiz with her own Shoppes website.

Cindi’s Shoppes site includes Upscale handcrafted Artisan products made by cottage-industry crafters, offering childrens & baby clothing, accessories, handbags, handcrafted Artisan unique gifts, home décor, mineral makeup, natural spa products, sea glass candles, and scents.

Cindi mentions, “after being employed in the business community for many years as a Paralegal, I’m looking forward to being a Work-at-Home Grandma and sharing tips with all my fellow Baby Boomers on how to successfully transition from commuter to eBiz Owner!”

In addition to the many eBiz ownerships Cindi has been involved in, she is now the author of a blog, Moomettesgram’s Musings Blog, located at http://moomettesmagnificents.com/blog. Cindi’s blog focuses on WAHM, eBay, ebiz tips, networking tips, the benefits of online education and recipes, just to name a few.

In addition, to the current items and services offered on Moomette’s Magnificents Shoppes Site, Cindi is working to offer Virtual Assistant Paralegal services as well as general Virtual Assistant services. There’s no stopping the success that this grandma will face in the coming years. Cindi is hoping her drive and ambition will help other baby boomers to launch into the eBiz industry and inspire them to go the extra mile and incorporate their hobbies and interests into money making opportunities all through the internet.

Moomette’s Magnificents Olde Towne Shoppes was established in 2007. Realizing the benefits of telecommuting, being one of the first to utilize the Internet when online education was in its infancy, and the benefits of a global economy, an e-business seemed a logical choice when reinventing herself to establish a second career. At Moomette’s Magnificents Olde Towne Shoppes, you’ll find unique gifts specifically chosen to reflect what New England is known for ~ its spectacular mountains and nautical maritime history.

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I’m delighted to announce that I’ve been invited by Erica Johns to be a Guest Blogger at The Baby Boutique Blog at Wombs Window.

The Baby Boutique at Womb’s Window is a business dedicated to

~excellent customer service
~continuing to seek out the best trendy basics for moms and babies
~bringing you products that are unique–not the same stuff you find at every superstore
~supporting and encouraging mothers through helpful articles, forums, newsletters, and a blog.

I’ll be blogging in greater detail about the joys of grandparenting and sharing all kinds of musings about my escapades with ‘Lil Moomette there!

Please help support all the WAHMs who are doing a great job out there!